By Lorie Ham
A record-high 653,104 people experienced homelessness in the United States on a single night in January 2023, according to the National Alliance to End Homelessness. This is more than a 12.1 percent increase over the previous year. At a time when the problems of the unhoused seem to be getting worse, there is a group in Sacramento trying to make a difference for women and children in that situation. That group is called Bridging Initiatives International. They have been an official non-profit since 2017.
According to their CEO and founder, Yene Wolteji, Bridging’s mission is to provide holistic and integrated services that address the diverse needs of vulnerable individuals and families experiencing instability as a result of domestic violence and/or homelessness, guiding them toward sustainable transitions to provide support and resources to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. We spoke with Yene recently to learn more.
Q: How did you personally become involved in this type of work and why?
Yene: All my work life, I have been involved in social work, helping the needy and orphans in Africa. Later, I had the opportunity to educate others on poverty alleviation and holistic development. My doctoral research focused on work ethics and holistic development. I have been engaged in educating others in that sector as well. I am very much committed to standing by and supporting those who are hurting wherever they are found.
When I came to the US, I didn’t expect to see homelessness and I was shocked to see people struggling in the land of abundance. I immediately organized people and started street outreach, which laid the foundation for where we are today.
Q: Can you tell us a little more about what it is you do?
Yene: Seeing children on the street and the vulnerability of women prompted the creation of the Bridging House, a shelter for women and children. We also support families with children by providing rental assistance and motel vouchers during transitions and crises.
This support is very important because it impacts the next generation as well. Not only do adults benefit, but children also gain a safe place and experience love and compassion from the community, which can positively impact their lives. The trauma of homelessness is addressed through prayers, encouragement, and unconditional love, helping them to heal and remain hopeful.
Q: Why do you feel this is important?
Yene: Homelessness can happen to anyone, especially if the immediate environment is not safe for children and women. Listening to the stories of people on the street changed my life. There are professionals and well-educated people, but something happens in their lives and they do not have a supportive environment to address the crisis healthily. The trap of homelessness and addiction keeps them in that cycle, generation after generation. They were once somebody, like any other successful person, but unfortunately, they got trapped in problems and they deserve to be listened to. I don’t think imposing decisions would help.
Q: How many people do you help each year?
Yene: In 2023, we supported 75 families and individuals with shelter, rental assistance, and motel vouchers. This year, we aim to help 80 people. Since the beginning of this year, we have focused on supporting women and children experiencing homelessness due to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Q: What can others do to help?
Yene: Anyone can find us on our website and donate to support the ministry. We pay rent for the shelter and provide necessary care for the families. We are also happy to share our biannual newsletter with anyone interested. Let us know by email, and we will reach out to interested people. We are in need of more budget, volunteer counselors, fundraisers, and admin support.
You can learn more about Bridging Initiatives International, subscribe to their newsletter, and learn about what you can do to help them with their important work on their website Bridgingii.org.
[Periodically Mennonite Insurance features an organization with whom we have a connection.]
